From Vancouver to Banff by Train (Complete Guide) by Gail McGlamery Traveling from Vancouver to Banff by train is one of the most scenic rail journeys in Canada. Instead of driving the Trans-Canada Highway, train travel lets you relax and enjoy sweeping mountain views, turquoise rivers, and dramatic alpine landscapes as you approach Banff National Park. This guide covers everything you need to know about taking the train from Vancouver to Banff, including routes, costs, travel time, and whether luxury rail trips like the Rocky Mountaineer are worth it. Relax and enjoy the Canadian Rockies scenery Table of Contents Is There a Direct Train from Vancouver to Banff?Best Train Options from Vancouver to BanffRocky Mountaineer (Luxury Option)VIA Rail (Budget-Friendly Option)Vancouver to Banff Train vs DrivingBest Time of Year to Travel by TrainWhat You’ll See Along the WayHow to Book Train Travel to BanffRocky Mountaineer:VIA Rail:Request Availability and a QuoteCan You Sleep on the Train?FAQs About Taking the Train to Banff Is there a direct train from Vancouver to Banff? How long is the train ride from Vancouver to Banff? Is the Rocky Mountaineer worth it? Can you reach Banff by Amtrak?Final Thoughts Is There a Direct Train from Vancouver to Banff? There is no direct daily passenger train that runs straight from Vancouver to Banff. However, there are two main ways to travel this route by rail: Rocky Mountaineer (luxury tourist train) VIA Rail (with connections) Each option offers a very different experience depending on your budget and travel style. Best Train Options from Vancouver to Banff Rocky Mountaineer with Mt. Robson in background Rocky Mountaineer (Luxury Option) The Rocky Mountaineer is the most popular and scenic way to travel from Vancouver to Banff by train. What to expect: Glass-dome railcars with panoramic views Gourmet meals included Overnight hotel stays in Kamloops or Lake Louise Fully narrated journey through the Canadian Rockies Route highlights: Fraser Canyon Thompson River Spiral Tunnels Banff National Park Travel time:2 days (with overnight stop) Cost:Typically ranges from $1,500–$4,500+ per person depending on service level and season. This option is ideal if you want the journey itself to be part of your vacation. VIA Rail (Budget-Friendly Option) VIA Rail does not operate a direct train to Banff. The closest major stop is Jasper or Edmonton, requiring additional transport to Banff by bus or car. Common route:Vancouver → Jasper (VIA Rail) → Banff (bus or shuttle) Travel time:Approximately 20–24 hours total Cost:Usually $150–$400 depending on seat class and season. This option works well for travelers prioritizing budget over luxury. Vancouver to Banff Train vs Driving Travel MethodTimeExperienceCostTrain20–48 hrsScenic, relaxing$$–$$$$Car8-9 hrsFlexible$$Flight1.5 hrs + transferFast$$$ If you want scenery without driving, the train is one of the most relaxing ways to reach Banff National Park. Best Time of Year to Travel by Train Summer (June–September): Peak season for Rocky Mountaineer, best scenery Fall (September–October): Fewer crowds, autumn colors Winter: Limited rail options, better to fly or drive Spring: Shoulder season, fewer departures What You’ll See Along the Way Rocky Mountaineer along side Thompson River Train travel from Vancouver to Banff passes through: Fraser Valley Fraser Canyon Thompson River region Canadian Rockies Spiral Tunnels Bow Valley Parkway This route is considered one of the most scenic rail trips in North America. How to Book Train Travel to Banff Rocky Mountaineer: Book directly through Rocky Mountaineer or travel agents Reserve several months in advance (summer sells out) VIA Rail: Book Vancouver to Jasper Add shuttle or bus from Jasper to Banff Request Availability and a Quote If you are Interested in booking your first train passage, then fill out the form below and a vacation planner will send you a quote by email including the latest information on availability, pricing, and any applicable specials. Name First Last Email(Required) PhoneRouteSelect Train RouteVancouver to BanffVancouver to Lake LouiseBanff to VancouverLake Louise to VancouverLevel of Train ServiceSelect Level of Train ServiceSilverLeaf Train ServiceGoldLeaf Train ServiceNumber of TravelersNumber of Hotel RoomsDate MM slash DD slash YYYY Do you have any additional information to include? Δ Can You Sleep on the Train? Rocky Mountaineer: No overnight sleeping on the train (hotel provided) VIA Rail: Sleeper cabins available on select routes FAQs About Taking the Train to Banff Is there a direct train from Vancouver to Banff? No, there is no daily direct passenger train. The Rocky Mountaineer is the closest direct scenic route. How long is the train ride from Vancouver to Banff? Between 20 and 48 hours depending on route and stopovers. Is the Rocky Mountaineer worth it? For travelers seeking a luxury scenic experience, yes — it’s often considered the best way to see the Canadian Rockies. Can you reach Banff by Amtrak? No, Amtrak does not serve Banff National Park. Final Thoughts Taking the train from Vancouver to Banff is less about speed and more about the experience. Whether you choose the luxury of the Rocky Mountaineer or the affordability of VIA Rail, train travel offers an unforgettable way to enter Banff National Park. For travelers who want stunning scenery without driving, rail travel is one of the most rewarding ways to reach Banff. Share FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail